Progress Reimagined

Kathleen Chu

Progress Reimagined explores innovative ideas, technologies, and emerging economic models that put humanity and our planet first. The show challenges assumptions to reshape how we think about progress and prosperity. 

Episodes

  1. 05/20/2025

    Breaking Free From Social Media Silos With The Fediverse

    Discover a refreshing digital experience that is free from attention manipulation and platform lock-in while helping you connect with others. In a digital landscape dominated by profit-driven tech giants that monetize attention and exploit user data, Mastodon's Andy Piper presents a liberating alternative. This episode explores how the Fediverse, with Mastodon at its center, is creating a more open, user-controlled social media ecosystem. Discover how decentralized networks let you own your digital presence, connect across platforms, and escape the engagement-maximizing algorithms designed to keep you scrolling. Join Andy, Head of Communications at Mastodon and formerly with Twitter (now X) and IBM, as he explains why distributed, community-owned social networks offer more resilience, control, and authentic connection than closed corporate platforms like Facebook and X. Learn how the Fediverse empowers users to take back control of their attention and data while fostering diverse communities with localized moderation. This conversation offers essential insights for anyone tired of being the product in surveillance capitalism and ready to reimagine their social media experience. Key Insights -How the Fediverse lets you communicate across platforms instead of being locked in walled gardens -Why data portability matters: Move your account without losing followers -How decentralized networks create resilience against manipulation and single points of failure -Why community-specific moderation creates safer, more inclusive spaces than global rules -How current platforms manipulate attention through algorithms and content insertion -Why the "everything app" approach serves corporate interests, not users -How interoperability and open standards foster collaboration and innovation -The importance of consciously choosing where you spend your digital attention -Why resilient, distributed infrastructure matters for our digital future -How nonprofit models can create sustainable alternatives to surveillance capitalism Connect with Andy Piper and Mastodon Mastodon: @andypiper@macaw.social Website: https://andypiper.co.uk Mastodon website: https://joinmastodon.org Mastodon blog: https://blog.joinmastodon.org FediForum Event (June 5-7, 2025): https://fediforum.org/ Recommended Reading "The Internet Con" by Cory Doctorow "Chokepoint Capitalism" by Rebecca Giblin and Cory Doctorow     Progress Reimagined explores innovative ideas, technologies, and emerging economic models that put humanity and our planet first. The show challenges assumptions to reshape how we think about progress and prosperity. Subscribe to Progress Reimagined https://substack.com/@progressreimagined https://www.youtube.com/@ProgressReimagined Host: Kathleen Chu, Host of Progress Reimagined progressreimagined at proton.me https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleeninweb3/ ❤️ Thank you for listening! If you know anyone who would benefit from today's episode, please share it and help spread the word. © 2025 Progress Reimagined. All rights reserved.

    49 min
  2. 04/28/2025

    Why Think Small Is The Future of AI: Mozilla.ai Engineer on Building Your Own Timeline

    In a digital world dominated by algorithms designed to maximize engagement rather than serve users, Davide Eynard presents a refreshing alternative. This episode explores how "thinking small" with purpose-built AI can transform our social media experience. Discover BYOTA (Build Your Own Timeline Algorithm), a project that lets you create personalized social media timelines without sharing your data. Join Davide, machine learning engineer and researcher at Mozilla.ai, as he explains why smaller, specialized AI running locally on your device can often outperform massive models for specific tasks. Learn how the "think small" philosophy and open source approach offer more privacy, control, and meaningful experiences than corporate algorithms designed to keep you scrolling. This conversation offers essential insights for anyone interested in taking back control of their digital experience or exploring how purpose-built AI can serve individual needs rather than corporate metrics.              Connect with Davide Eynard and Mozilla.ai Mozilla.ai website: https://mozilla.ai Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mozilla-ai X: @MozillaAI https://x.com/MozillaAI Mastodon: @MozillaAI@mastodon.social BlueSky: @mozilla.ai https://bsky.app/profile/mozilla.ai YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mozilla.ai1 BYOTA Project   Blog post: https://blog.mozilla.ai/build-your-own-timeline-algorithm-a-blueprint-2/  Live demo: https://huggingface.co/spaces/mozilla-ai/byota GitHub repo: https://github.com/mozilla-ai/byota Mastodon thread about BYOTA: https://fosstodon.org/@mala/113967540546211928 More on Mozilla.ai Blueprints: https://mozilla.ai/blueprints Davide’s talk at FOSDEM: https://fosdem.org/2025/schedule/event/fosdem-2025-5601-build-your-own-timeline-algorithm/ Why open-source matters: Ada & Zangemann - A Tale of Software, Skateboards, and Raspberry Ice Cream https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ac3ZZ7WUuZM Progress Reimagined explores innovative ideas, technologies, and emerging economic models that put humanity and our planet first. The show challenges assumptions to reshape how we think about progress and prosperity. Subscribe to Progress Reimagined https://substack.com/@progressreimagined https://www.youtube.com/@ProgressReimagined Host: Kathleen Chu, Host of Progress Reimagined progressreimagined at proton.me https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleeninweb3/ ❤️ Thank you for listening! If you know anyone who would benefit from today's episode, please share it and help spread the word. © 2025 Progress Reimagined. All rights reserved.

    54 min
  3. 04/07/2025

    Social Movements in Dangerous Times: How This App Helps Activists Stay One Step Ahead

    For activists and organizers worldwide, digital tools have become vital infrastructure for creating change. Yet most rely on platforms designed for other purposes, with business models that don't prioritize movement needs. Emil Vincentz, Executive Director at Acter, discusses how their encrypted organizing app is building technology that truly serves social movements rather than extracting value from user data and attention. This conversation explores the challenges of digital organizing in an era of increased authoritarianism, the importance of secure and usable tools, and how decentralized technology can help preserve activist spaces. Whether you're an activist, community organizer, or simply concerned about digital rights, this discussion offers valuable insights on creating technology that puts people before profit. -- Key Topics: -The difference between mobilizing vs. organizing in social movements -How current digital tools shape activist organizing (often not for the better) -Matrix protocol and decentralized technology for movement security -Designing technology that respects user attention and privacy -Security challenges for activists in restrictive environments -Creating sustainable movement structures that don't rely on individuals -Balancing usability with security in activist technology -- 📖 Further Reading Polycrisis Digital Hygiene Digital Security Tips for Protesters Mesh Network Gen Z Has Regrets About Matrix -- Connect With Acter: Acter App available on iOS and Android app stores Digital Activism Podcast: https://acter.global/podcast/ Reach out to Emil: emil at acter.global or hello at acter.global Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/acter-global/posts/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/acterglobal.bsky.social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acterglobal/ Progress Reimagined explores innovative ideas, technologies, and emerging economic models that put humanity and our planet first. The show challenges assumptions to reshape how we think about progress and prosperity. Subscribe to Progress Reimagined https://substack.com/@progressreimagined https://www.youtube.com/@ProgressReimagined Host: Kathleen Chu, Host of Progress Reimagined progressreimagined at proton.me https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleeninweb3/ ❤️ Thank you for listening! If you know anyone who would benefit from today's episode, please share it and help spread the word. © 2025 Progress Reimagined. All rights reserved.

    50 min
  4. 03/10/2025

    Turning Trash into Treasure: How One Network Is Creating Environmental Gold

    From organic waste to fast fashion, tune in to this episode to discover how we can collectively transform trash into resources, curb wasteful production, and decarbonize our planet. Discover how our linear "take-make-dispose" system wastes limited resources and how the circular economy transforms waste to resource opportunities. Join Ian McKee, founder of the Carrot Network, as he reveals how environmental economics and sustainable business models revolutionize resource management. Learn why organic waste which accounts for more than half of global waste is fully recyclable, how Extended Producer Responsibility creates corporate accountability, and how climate finance solutions like liquidity pools drive sustainability investment. This conversation offers essential insights for anyone interested in waste management innovation or transforming environmental challenges into economic opportunities.  Listen to Discover: -How environmental economics reveals hidden value in waste streams -How waste to resource thinking fundamentally changes economic models -The sustainable business models emerging from circular economy principles -Why composting organic waste is the foundation of circular systems -How Extended Producer Responsibility programs are creating economic incentives for proper waste management -Why putting a price on waste is essential for driving system-wide change -The innovative liquidity pool solution to the climate capital trilemma -How the circular economy could be our most powerful tool for decarbonization -The importance of connecting all participants in the waste management ecosystem -How small individual actions compound into significant environmental impact --- Connect with Carrot Network Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/carrot-network/people/ Website: https://www.carrot.eco/ --- Progress Reimagined explores innovative ideas, technologies, and emerging economic models that put humanity and our planet first. The show challenges assumptions to reshape how we think about progress and prosperity. Subscribe to Progress Reimagined https://substack.com/@progressreimagined https://www.youtube.com/@ProgressReimagined Host: Kathleen Chu, Host of Progress Reimagined progressreimagined at proton.me https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleeninweb3/ ❤️ Thank you for listening! If you know anyone who would benefit from today's episode, please share it and help spread the word. © 2025 Progress Reimagined. All rights reserved.

    1h 7m
  5. 02/24/2025

    How to Protect Your Online Privacy in 2025: A Guide to Tor Browser and Digital Freedom

    Learn how to take control of your online privacy - even if you're not tech-savvy. Discover essential digital privacy tips and practical cybersecurity strategies with Pavel Zoneff from The Tor Project. Learn how to protect your online privacy and secure your digital footprint without being a tech expert. From understanding internet security basics to implementing privacy tools, this episode guides you through the fundamentals of staying safe online.    --- Key Insights: -Why your online privacy matters (even if you have "nothing to hide") -Simple steps to protect your personal information online -How to browse the internet safely without sacrificing convenience -Real stories of how privacy tools protect everyday people  --- Tor Project: https://www.torproject.org/ https://www.torproject.org/download/ https://donate.torproject.org/ https://snowflake.torproject.org/ Progress Reimagined explores innovative ideas, technologies, and emerging economic models that put humanity and our planet first. The show challenges assumptions to reshape how we think about progress and prosperity. Subscribe to Progress Reimagined https://substack.com/@progressreimagined https://www.youtube.com/@ProgressReimagined Host: Kathleen Chu, Host of Progress Reimagined progressreimagined at proton.me https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleeninweb3/ ❤️ Thank you for listening! If you know anyone who would benefit from today's episode, please share it and help spread the word. © 2025 Progress Reimagined. All rights reserved.

    40 min
  6. 02/10/2025

    Building Sustainable Humanitarian Solutions From AI to Self-Funding Future

    Discover how Equitech Collective contributes to healthcare equity through innovative technology and social impact. In this inspiring conversation, Chi Ling shares her journey from public service to founding Equitech, a social enterprise dedicated to making healthcare more accessible through digital innovation and AI solutions. Learn how Equitech's initiatives, from AI-powered healthcare tools to coding boot camps for refugees, make a meaningful difference in communities. Chi Ling discusses how impact ventures can achieve both social purpose and financial sustainability through self-sustaining business models and shares practical insights for others looking to drive change in digital health and healthcare accessibility.   Key Insights How technology can drive healthcare equity and community empowerment Building sustainable impact ventures that balance purpose and profit Leveraging AI as a force for good in healthcare delivery Creating opportunities through digital skills training and refugee support Practical strategies for starting and scaling social enterprises Connect with Equitech Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/equitechcollective  Website: https://www.equity.tech/ Progress Reimagined explores innovative ideas, technologies, and emerging economic models that put humanity and our planet first. The show challenges assumptions to reshape how we think about progress and prosperity. Subscribe to Progress Reimagined https://substack.com/@progressreimagined https://www.youtube.com/@ProgressReimagined Host: Kathleen Chu, Host of Progress Reimagined progressreimagined at proton.me https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleeninweb3/ ❤️ Thank you for listening! If you know anyone who would benefit from today's episode, please share it and help spread the word. © 2025 Progress Reimagined. All rights reserved.

    40 min
  7. 01/13/2025

    Making Sense of Global Chaos: A New Civilization is Emerging (And Why It Matters)

    As our world faces unprecedented changes, renowned commons researcher and P2P Foundation founder Michel Bauwens reveals how societal chaos is actually birthing a new civilization. Drawing from decades of research in peer-to-peer systems, commons-based solutions, and decentralized networks, he maps out what's emerging and why there's hope. Watch to discover:  • Why current chaos is a necessary transition phase • How seed forms predict future societal structures • The role of Web3 and blockchain in this transformation • Why regenerative practices are replacing extractive systems • How communities can thrive during this transition Dr. Michel Bauwens is the founder of the P2P Foundation and a pioneering researcher in commons-based solutions. As a thought leader in his field, he has helped cities and organizations worldwide develop plans for a future based on collaboration rather than competition. His work spans from advising governments and organizations to documenting emerging forms of social organization. Based in Chiang Mai, Thailand, he leads research on how communities can work together more effectively in our rapidly changing world. Connect with Michel: Twitter/X: @mbauwens Resources mentioned: P2P Foundation Wiki: [https://wiki.p2pfoundation.net/Main_Page] (25,000+ articles) Fourth Civilization Substack: [https://4thgenerationcivilization.substack.com/] Regen Network Book: "Scale" by Geoffrey West Book: "Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor Frankl Book: "Half-Earth: Our Planet’s Fight for Life” by Edward O. Wilson  Topics covered: #NewCivilization #Transformation #Commons #PeerToPeer #Decentralization #Web3 #Regeneration #SocialChange #FutureOfSociety #DigitalTransformation Progress Reimagined explores innovative ideas, technologies, and emerging economic models that put humanity and our planet first. The show challenges assumptions to reshape how we think about progress and prosperity. Subscribe to Progress Reimagined https://substack.com/@progressreimagined https://www.youtube.com/@ProgressReimagined Host: Kathleen Chu, Host of Progress Reimagined progressreimagined at proton.me https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleeninweb3/ ❤️ Thank you for listening! If you know anyone who would benefit from today's episode, please share it and help spread the word. © 2025 Progress Reimagined. All rights reserved.

    1h 8m
  8. 12/16/2024

    Discover why age is just the beginning of your greatest adventures

    Welcome to Progress Reimagined, a show dedicated to redefining progress with humans and our planet at the center.  Think being too old or non-technical means you've missed the startup boat? Think again. In this candid conversation, Katerina Stroponiati, founder of Brilliant Minds, and Kathleen Chu challenge conventional wisdom about who can succeed in today's tech landscape. They examine how AI is democratizing entrepreneurship for experienced professionals and demonstrate how seasoned individuals are launching ventures that unlock human potential at every stage of life. From revolutionizing the energy sector to pioneering cryptocurrency solutions, their discussion reveals that life experience combined with AI isn't just a powerful combination—it's the perfect foundation for creating ventures that foster human flourishing. For anyone who thought their innovative years were behind them, this conversation illuminates why your accumulated experience might be the beginning of your most impactful chapter yet. Progress Reimagined explores innovative ideas, technologies, and emerging economic models that put humanity and our planet first. The show challenges assumptions to reshape how we think about progress and prosperity. Subscribe to Progress Reimagined https://substack.com/@progressreimagined https://www.youtube.com/@ProgressReimagined Host: Kathleen Chu, Host of Progress Reimagined progressreimagined at proton.me https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleeninweb3/ ❤️ Thank you for listening! If you know anyone who would benefit from today's episode, please share it and help spread the word. © 2025 Progress Reimagined. All rights reserved.

    33 min
  9. The GDP Paradox: Rethinking How We Measure Global Prosperity

    12/10/2024

    The GDP Paradox: Rethinking How We Measure Global Prosperity

    For decades, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has reigned as the supreme measure of economic success, shaping policies and decisions affecting billions worldwide. But in an era of mounting environmental challenges, rising inequality, and shifting social priorities, this singular focus on GDP may be leading us astray. Join economic policy expert Amanda Janoo, Economics and Policy Lead at Wellbeing Economy Alliance (WEALL), as she unravels why our current system of measuring economic progress misses crucial aspects of human and planetary wellbeing. Through discussion, she explores how alternative economic indicators could help create a more sustainable and equitable future. Whether you're an economics enthusiast, policy maker, or simply someone curious about why traditional economic measures seem increasingly disconnected from lived reality, this episode offers fresh insights into one of the most pressing questions of our time: How do we define and measure true economic progress in the 21st century?   Progress Reimagined explores innovative ideas, technologies, and emerging economic models that put humanity and our planet first. The show challenges assumptions to reshape how we think about progress and prosperity. Subscribe to Progress Reimagined https://substack.com/@progressreimagined https://www.youtube.com/@ProgressReimagined Host: Kathleen Chu, Host of Progress Reimagined progressreimagined at proton.me https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleeninweb3/ ❤️ Thank you for listening! If you know anyone who would benefit from today's episode, please share it and help spread the word. © 2025 Progress Reimagined. All rights reserved.

    39 min

About

Progress Reimagined explores innovative ideas, technologies, and emerging economic models that put humanity and our planet first. The show challenges assumptions to reshape how we think about progress and prosperity.